Concerning existing urinary tract issues, what qualification does the research suggest about the role of cranberries?

Cranberries may not treat an existing infection, functioning more as a proactive preventative measure

It is crucial to distinguish the preventative role of cranberries from the treatment of active illness. Although studies strongly support the effectiveness of the A-type PACs in preventing bacteria like E. coli from initially adhering to the urinary tract walls, the literature indicates a limitation regarding established infections. The text makes a clear distinction that cranberries may not effectively treat an infection that has already taken hold and colonized the tissues. This means their primary recognized utility in this area is proactive—helping to reduce the *recurrence* of UTIs—rather than serving as an active cure for a current bacterial infection.